Best Noise Isolating Earbuds of 2018

Noise isolating earbuds allow you to drown out the noise of the environment around you so that you can hear the music with more clarity. In previous years this feature was typically found in premium priced models, but nowadays it can be found even in the budget models. With so many options out there are you confused about the specific earbuds to buy?

In this buying guide we will share the top noise isolating earbuds that you should consider buying. Furthermore, there are 3 price categories that the products have been split among. This enables you to buy noise isolating earbuds that matches your budget. There is no need to spend time researching the various products in the marketplace as we have done the leg work for you.

Additionally, there is a list of things that must be considered when buying noise isolating earbuds. In this guide we will share what they are so that you’re able to buy the earbuds in a straightforward manner. There is no need to guess when there is a rich array of factors that can help you select the right product.

We hope that by the time you finish reading this buying guide you know how to buy the right earbuds for your needs and find a suitable choice from our list of the top noise isolating earbuds.

Top buying considerations

Noise Isolation

One of the more desired features in earbuds is noise isolation because of the advantages that it brings. You can walk down a busy street or be sitting with your entire family in the living room and not hear the environment around you. Therefore, you can immerse yourself in the audio experience you are trying to have. It can be frustrating if background noise leaks in and reduces the clarity of the music.

However, you must keep in mind that at times noise isolation can be dangerous. For example, if you’re driving then you need to hear the ambient noise around you to avoid the dangers of the road. This is also applicable when riding a bike through a busy city with cars and people around you.

Comfort

Another important feature is the comfort of the earbuds. The majority of noise isolating earbuds have an in-ear canal design so that background noise can easily be reduced or altogether eliminated. However, this means that the fit will be secure and the amount of earbud movement is kept to a minimum while you are active.

The comfort can be improved when a large number of eartips are provided of varying sizes. Also some companies go the extra mile of including eartips with 2 different materials types. This allows you to select the eartip that is the right fit and also you like the feel of the most.

Wireless capabilities

Due to the improvements made in Bluetooth technology and battery life the earbud market is trending towards wireless options. Nowadays you can expect a battery life of up to 10 hours that will be reliable and provides enough power for the entire day. There are even models that provide a quick boost in battery life for a short amount of charging time.

The big advantage of a wireless setup is that you do not have to deal with hiding a wire. This means the freedom of movement is improved and therefore wireless earbuds are suitable for physical exercise.

Durability

As with any product the durability of the product should come into the equation. When selecting an earbud to buy you must pay attention to the materials used to manufacture the product. As a rule of thumb cheap plastics should be avoided. Typically a cheap looking product is exactly what it looks like.

Some product descriptions mention the quality of materials used and might share how the framework was constructed. The bottom line is that earbuds are prone to breaking – it’s one of the main reasons why earbud owners need a replacement.

Furthermore, the warranty of the product should give you some indication regarding how durable the product is. If it does let you down in a relatively short period of time then you can always make use of the warranty to get a replacement unit.

Sweatproof

Are you going to be using earbuds for the outdoors or whilst exercising? Then you need to look for a waterproof rating that indicates the earbuds can handle a decent level of moisture before breaking. When exercising the sweat build-up can cause problems to the electronics of the product if the design is not waterproof. Also the majority of sweatproof designs are able to withstand some light rain, which means you can confidently walk during lousy weather and not worry about the earbuds breaking.

Who should buy noise isolating earbuds?

For work

Do you work in a noisy environment and would like to tune out the surrounding environment? With noise isolating earbuds you can improve your work efficiency by canceling out surrounding sounds. This can be in an office environment where there is a lot of noise. Furthermore, you can select a model with a microphone so that you can take calls while you are working in a hands-free manner.

For gym users

At the gym it can be noisy and this is especially true when there is music playing that you are not into. However, to get focused on your workout you do not need this distraction. You can overcome it by making use of noise isolating earbuds as you will hear your music without the unwanted noise of the surrounding environment.

Sleep on public transport

Do you travel a lot and find that taking a nap on a train or plane is difficult because of the noise? Then you can make use of noise isolating earbuds in order to drown out the ambient sounds. Consequently, you’ll be able to sleep much better than you would have been able to before.

However, when you buy noise isolating earbuds for the purpose of sleeping you’ll naturally be wearing them for multiple hours at a time. Therefore you should make sure that a comfortable option is elected.

Top noise isolating earbuds By Budget:

Top Noise Isolating Earbuds Under $60

Do you need noise isolating earbuds on a budget? Then make a selection from the under $60 category. In previous years the noise isolating feature might have been only available in earbuds over the $100 price point. However, that isn’t the case anymore as you are spoilt for choice of noise isolating earbuds at the budget level.

The biggest difference between this price category and the more expensive ones is that cheaper materials are used and the overall quality of the audio isn’t as good. However, we have found earbuds that do an excellent job of providing good quality audio on a budget.

1. ISOtunes Noise Isolating Earbuds

The ISOtunes Noise Isolating Earbuds are one of the first lab tested and ANSI certified noise isolating earbuds today. The noise isolation is approximately 26 dB and is great to use in loud situations – for example in large crowds, when mowing the yard or when working. The earbuds connectivity is wireless, which means they are also great for workouts.

The sound is superior when compared to other noise isolating earbuds due to the connection technology (Bluetooth 4.1) and the drivers used (8mm). Both of these features combined output amazing life like tunes with crisp bass and sleek treble. In addition, the earbuds are sweat and water resistant with a rating of IPX3.

Moreover, the ISOtunes Noise Isolating Earbuds contains a built-in microphone, which you can use to take calls on the go. However, unlike most microphones this one utilizes active noise isolation technology allowing you to have clear audio without any background noises.

To summarize, these earbuds are great to take to the gym or long journeys due to the long battery life and the durability of the product. The sweat and water resistant feature makes this earbud great for outdoor activities -even in the harshest of weather conditions.

Tech Specs

Weight: 0.7 ounces

Waterproof: Yes

Wireless: Yes

Warranty: 3-4 years

The Pros

Durable

Made with high quality materials

Noise isolation is amazing

The Cons

Noise isolation may prevent you from hearing your surroundings

Not everyone needs earbuds with a microphone attachment

2. MEE audio Sport-Fi M6 Noise Isolating earbuds

The MEE audio Sport-Fi M6 Noise Isolating earbuds come with a secure over the ear fit and memory wire. The design of the product allows the earbud to sit tightly inside your ear without almost any change of them falling out, and because of this design the earbud isolates any unnecessary outside noise.

In addition, these earbuds won’t cause any strain on your ears after wearing for long periods of time, due to the patented ergonomic earpiece design. The noise isolation also provides greater bass, because it doesn’t let any background noise interrupt your experience. Also, the MEE audio Sport-Fi M6 has been certified with a sweatproof and waterproof rating of IPX5.

Moreover, the earbuds come with a carrying case and six sets of eartips, which ensures a guaranteed fit for your ears. The earbuds also have a clip attachment that can be used to manage the cable so it won’t get in the way, thus making it a great product for runners. In addition, when you purchase this product you get a 1 year warranty for free.

To conclude, the MEE audio Sport-Fi M6 is great for multiple reasons such as having great noise isolation, being sweat and water resistant, having a secure sleek fit, and containing a cable clip. Also, when you buy this earbud you get a 1 year warranty.

Tech Specs

Weight: 0.64 ounces

Waterproof: Yes

Wireless: No

Warranty: 1 year

The Pros

Sleek and stylish design

A great budget earbud

Unique design

The Cons

Noise isolation may prevent you from hearing your surroundings

No button pad or microphone

3. TaoTronics Lightweight Sports Noise Isolating Earbuds

Another great pair of wireless noise isolating earbuds is the TaoTronics Lightweight Sports Noise Isolating Earbuds. The aptX and Bluetooth connectivity provide a stable connection at all times canceling out any background noise. In addition, the noise isolation is outstanding reducing all unnecessary noises, which allows you to immerse yourself in the beats.

Furthermore, the earbuds are built with inner splash proof Nano coating, which ensures the earbuds won’t get affected by sweat or light rain. Also, the earbuds have been certified with a waterproof and sweatproof rating of IPX6. Once you have finished using the earbuds you can attach the tips together around your neck with the magnets, which is a secure way to carry them around.

Moreover, the battery life is amazing with up time of 8 hours and 6 hours of call time. Also, the earbuds come with 4 pairs of interchangeable standard and sportwearearhooks, which present a secure and easy fit. Plus, the built-in microphone comes with noise canceling features, because it uses CVC 6.0 technology.

In conclusion, these earbuds are excellent for gym users or people who want to listen to their tunes without any background noise. Due to the noise isolation you will be able to hear every note and beat ranging from 20 Hz to 20k Hz. Moreover, these earbuds are 100% sweat and water resistant with a rating of IPX6.

Tech Specs

Weight: 0.32 ounces

Waterproof: Yes

Wireless: Yes

Warranty: 3-4 years

The Pros

Excellent noise isolation

Comfortable eartips

Great for outdoor use

The Cons

Noise isolation may prevent you from hearing your surroundings

Some people may forget to charge their earbuds before long journeys

Top noise isolating earbuds under $100

For products that deliver higher quality than the budget category the under $100 category is where you should be looking. Here you’ll find some earbuds that are able to remove ambient noise at very high efficiency levels. Also the quality of the fit and durability at this price point category is excellent.

For those that want to make a purchase based on the best cost to value ratio will find earbuds here that are a good fit. Furthermore, the overall audio quality of the earbuds here will meet the expectations of most buyers. The noise isolating earbuds under $100 are a great portable audio solution that offers a variety of uses.

4. ISOtunes PRO earbuds

ISOtunes Pro earbuds have been ANSI certified to have one of the best noise isolating technology with noise reduction being at 27 dB. The Bluetooth hearing protector is made for loud environments, or when you want to disconnect from the world and dive into your music. Also, the earbuds are 100% OSHA compliant for use in the workplace.

Furthermore, the battery life of these wireless earbuds is amazing with 10 hour music playback and 240 hours of standby time. ISOtunes includes their SafeSound technology, which allows users to listen to music at max volume for the whole duration of the battery without damaging the ears.

The connection technology used is Bluetooth 4.1 and EDR. This means the earbuds can stream HD audio without any interruptions. Moreover, the noise isolation cancels out any background noises, allowing you to have clear sounding phone calls in busy areas. Not only are the earbuds noise isolation, but also water and sweat resistant with a rating of IPX4.

To summarize, the ISOtunes PRO earbuds are perfect for people who travel a lot, because of the many features. For starters the connectivity is wireless, thus when traveling no wires will get in the way. The battery life is long at 10 hours, plus the standby time is amazing at 240 hours. Also, the noise isolating is excellent at 27 dB.

Tech Specs

Weight: 0.64 ounces

Waterproof: Yes

Wireless: Yes

Warranty: 3-4 years

The Pros

Great earphone tips

Sleek design

Great battery life

The Cons

Noise isolation may prevent you from hearing your surroundings

Some people may forget to charge their earbuds before long journeys

5. RHA MA750i Noise Isolating earbuds

The RHA MA750i Noise Isolating earbuds are made from dense stainless steel, and therefore these earbuds are long lasting and durable. Each driver is formed to be an Aerophonic shape to provide sonic performance, and because of the geometry of the earbud the noise isolation is nothing short of amazing.

RHA provides six sets of density eartips for a comfortable and noise isolating feel. The outer layers of the eartips are made from softer materials to comfort the ears while also blocking out exterior noises. In addition, the RHA MA750i comes with two sets of double flange eartips and two sets of memory foam eartips, thus you can choose which materials are most comfortable to you.

Furthermore, the over the ear fit design is comfortable and prevents the earbuds from falling out. Also when worn at the right angle it can help deliver noise isolation more effectively. The 1.35m reinforced cable allows crystal clear transmissions from device to earbud without any interruptions. Also, the earbuds feature oxygen-free copper cores and stainless steel through the cable, which means the wire will be durable, long lasting, and flexible.

In conclusion,the RHA MA750i noise isolating earbuds does an excellent job at noise isolating and outputting high quality beats. The Aerophonic design allows the earbuds to provide great noise isolation, thus tuning out unnecessary sounds around you. In addition, the eartips are extremely comfortable and made from different materials to ensure a tight fit.

Tech Specs

Weight: 1.28 ounces

Waterproof: No

Wireless: No

Warranty: 3 years

The Pros

Great earphone tips

Made with high quality materials

The Cons

Noise isolation may prevent you from hearing your surroundings

The microphone version is compatible only with iPhone

6. Etymotic Research MC3 Noise-Isolating Earbuds

These are one of the best noise isolating earbuds with a noise reduction of 35 dB to 42 dB and a max output of 120 dB. The earbuds produce tight bass with clear mids and not to mention crisp highs, thus creating a HD stereo experience. The sleek and stylish 8mm neodymium drivers distribute energy efficiently thought the earbuds, which allow the drivers to play music at an unbelievably high levels.

In addition, the Etymotic Research MC3 comes with a built-in microphone, which you can use to answer calls while on the go. Also, the three buttons on the pad can be used to skip tunes, pause, and play music. The reinforced 4 foot cable is made from high quality materials, thus ensuring a long lasting product.

Also, the 3.5mm stereo jack is compatible with almost all products, which means this earbud can be universally used. In the packaging you will receive an assortment of eartips to guarantee a perfect fit, plus a carrying pouch to keep the earbuds safe when not in use. Furthermore, the earbuds have a high-gloss and a polished anodized aluminium finish, which makes the product look stylish and premium.

In conclusion, these earbuds provide great noise isolation for when you want to zone out and listen to your beats. The sleek and stylish design makes the product feel premium and high quality. Also, the drivers used inside of the earbud output crispy highs and deep clear mids creating a HD stereo experience.

Tech Specs

Weight: 0.8 ounces

Waterproof: No

Wireless: No

Warranty: 2-4 years

The Pros

Sleek and stylish design

Made with high quality materials

Noise isolation is amazing

The Cons

Noise isolation may prevent you from hearing your surroundings

Not everyone needs earbuds with a microphone attachment

7. Meidong Bluetooth earbuds

Unlike most wireless earbuds the Meidong noise isolating earbuds can be charged via OTG magnetic charging. This means you can use any electronic device with a USB interface to charge it such as a laptop, desk computers, power banks, and smartphones. One full charge of the earbuds will consume only 3% battery of the newest generation of smartphones.

The earbuds have one of the best built-in noise isolation chipsets, which reduce ambient noises with a simple click of a button. The active noise isolation, Bluetooth 4.1, and aptx technology combined produces one of the best sounding tunes with stable highs and low cut bass. Also, what’s more impressive with these earbuds is the lightweight construction – the earbuds don’t even exceed 15g, which means you won’t even feel them in your ears.

Moreover, the ergonomic ear wings are designed to sit on your ears perfectly, which will provide a secure and comfortable fit. The soft angled silicone earbuds come in three different sizes to guarantee a perfect fit. In addition, when moving or doing any intense activity the earbuds will stay firmly in place, which makes this a great product for hikers, runners, and also travellers.

To conclude, the Meidong Bluetooth earbuds provides great noise isolation while only weighing under 15g. The connection technology used is Bluetooth 4.1 and aptx. In addition, the earbuds have a unique feature where it can charge via OTG magnetic charging. Also, the angle of the eartips provides a secure and comfortable fit, because it is made from high quality silicone.

Tech Specs

Weight: 0.48 ounces

Waterproof: No

Wireless: Yes

Warranty: 2-4 years

The Pros

Sleek and stylish design

OTG magnetic charging

Unique design

The Cons

Noise isolation may prevent you from hearing your surroundings

No built in microphone

Top noise isolating earbuds under $250

Do you need noise isolating earbuds that do not compromise in any department? Then in the under $250 category you will find some great choices that add a lot of value to your audio listening experience. The combination of the comfortable fit, durability, and excellent audio means you’re getting a great product. Furthermore, the effectives of the noise isolation in this category is second to none. It means you can be in a very noisy environment and not hear the sounds around when music in the earbuds is playing.

8. Bose QuietComfort 20

If you are looking for a premium noise isolating earbud then look no further, because Bose has created the ideal product. The Bose QuietComfort not only isolates the sound, but also reduces the background noise around you. In addition, the Stay Hear+ tips lets you sink into your music and enjoy every beat in HD audio.

Moreover, the headphones come with an Aware mode, which lets you turn down or turn off completely the noise isolation so that you can hear your surroundings. The exclusive TriPort technology and active EQ help deliver almost lifelike audio quality. What’s more impressive is the built-in button, which is designed to work for all Apple and Android devices.

With the button pad you can skip, pause, and play music without having to touch your device. Also, the advanced ear tips are shaped like a cone to better fit the insides of the ear, because of this feature the tips completely seal the ear canal contributing to the noise reduction.

To summarize, the Bose QuietComfort is a premium earbud, which provides great noise isolation. In addition, the earbuds come with a button pad allowing you to change beats as you please without having to grab your device. Also, you can buy the Bose QuietComfort with a 3 to 4 year warranty.

Tech Specs

Weight: 16 ounces

Waterproof: No

Wireless: No

Warranty: 3-4 years

The Pros

Sleek and stylish design

Excellent noise isolation

Unique design

The Cons

Noise isolation may prevent you from hearing your surroundings

Weights considerable more than most earbuds

9. COWIN HE8D Active Noise Isolating Bluetooth Earbuds

The COWIN HE8D uses sensors to detect what volume level music you are listing to and by that information the earbuds reduce or increase the noise isolation. This way the earbuds provide stable high quality music without any interference. Also, the connectivity technology is wireless making these earbuds practical and easy to use when on the move.

Moreover, the eartips are made from soft synthetic leather, which gives a luxurious look and feel when wearing them. The headphones are designed to fit securely over your ears for long periods of time. Also, they are made to be lightweight so the earbuds won’t put any strain onto the ears after wearing for long.

In addition, the COWIN HE8D Active Noise Isolating Bluetooth Earbuds are made to be waterproof and sweatproof making it a great product for outdoor activities. The protection used is Liquipel Nano coating, which has been lab tested to be one of the best materials for preventing water damage.

To summarize, these earbuds can be used in a variety of places – especially outdoors, because of the water and sweat resistant feature. The connection technology used is Bluetooth and the charging technology is OTM magnetic charging. Also, the noise isolation adjusts automatically depending on the volume you are playing your music at.

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Joseph Flynt

I love diving into the latest and greatest in emerging technologies and seeing what they can do. I enjoy running when I'm not thinking about tech.